The application of DTC to the standard model 1198 underlines Ducati’s intention to broaden the use of tried and tested race-derived electronics to its high-powered range, while the introduction of DQS to the 1198 and 1198 SP marks the first time in history that “quick-shift” electronics have been fitted to a production Ducati.

Engineered by the stopwatch

The Ducati 848EVO, 1198 and 1198 SP Superbikes are the product of a team of designers and engineers who have combined their Ducati MotoGP and World Superbike technologies to create the finest sportbikes in the world. From race-level engine specifications to World Championship-winning traction control and quickshift electronics, the results are pure excellence. The Ducati Traction Control (DTC) system further confirms Ducati’s technology flow from racing to production and demonstrates how solutions developed for the track can be applied to enhance safer performance on the road. Designed by the race track Ducati Superbikes are race bikes, pure and simple. Their striking aerodynamic shapes create a natural riding position, confirmed by Ducati development and factory team riders as the optimum for speed and agility.

Performance is first and foremost in every detail.

Trademark Ducati features like the high tail section and compact front end combine with twin under-seat silencers and single-sided swingarm to express the sheer engineering beauty of aerodynamics and agility.

Add the Testastretta Evoluzione engines as the hearts of the machines and the result is all-out performance Ducati Superbikes that look fast even when parked.

Superbike Chassis

The 848EVO, 1198 and 1198 SP chassis and suspension are the result of a ‘performance-first’ priority approach to development, in which the goal is always to further reduce weight and increase strength and rigidity to manage the high-powered Testastretta Evoluzione engines.

Trellis frame

Developed in cooperation with Ducati Corse, the lightweight Trellis frame features 34mm main section tubes with a material thickness of 1.5mm. The result is an incredibly rigid construction that remains one of Ducati’s lightest frame solutions ever. Adding style to performance, the three colour versions for the 848EVO use frames finished in red and racing black while the 1198 is in racing black and both schemes of the 1198 SP are finished in red.

Front suspension

Both the 848EVO and 1198 feature fully adjustable 43mm Showa forks, with an additional special low friction titanium oxide treatment applied to the sliders of the 1198, while spectacular 43mm Ã–hlins with low friction titanium nitride-treated sliders are used on the 1198 SP. Both front suspension solutions have radial brake calliper mountings providing superior road holding and incredible feedback to give every rider more confidence and control.

Rear suspension

The lightweight Trellis frame and single-sided swingarm enable a compact and weight-saving rear suspension linkage system that features separate lower pick-up points for the push-rod and suspension unit. This ‘tandem’ design effectively reduces stress around the linkage pick-up area of the Trellis frame.

Working together with this highly efficient linkage is a fully adjustable Showa single shock for the 848EVO and 1198, and an incredible Ã–hlins unit for the 1198 SP with TTX twin tube technology providing totally separate damping adjustment in compression and rebound. The system uses experience gained in MotoGP to minimise friction and reduce the risk of cavitation under extreme conditions. The 1198 and 1198 SP rear suspension system has an adjustable rear ride-height, independent of spring pre-load and other suspension settings – valuable when seeking the perfect set-up for personal riding style or track conditions.

Single-sided swingarm

The dual construction technique used for the single-sided swingarm allows the main operational components to use individual aluminium castings so as to ensure strength around the pivot points, wheel hub and suspension links, while lightweight, fabricated aluminium sections are used to complete the construction into a single, beautifully engineered component. The 848EVO, 1198 and 1198 SP all have singlesided swingarms finished in black.

Race-bred brakes

Ducati Superbikes have always been famous for their incredible, track-derived braking performance and the 2011 model line-up is no exception.

The 1198, 1198 SP and now the 848EVO all use Brembo’s incredibly powerful Monobloc calliper racing technology. Machined from a single piece of alloy, the callipers achieve a higher rigidity and resistance to distortion during extreme braking. The resulting increase in hydraulic efficiency not only delivers incredible braking power, but also provides an enhanced and precise ‘feel’ at the brake lever.

The twin Monobloc callipers each have four 34mm pistons that grip 320mm discs on the 848EVO and huge 330mm discs on the 1198 and 1198 SP to achieve spectacular braking performance.

Super lightweight wheels

The lightweight front wheels used on all Ducati Superbike models substantially reduces the moment of inertia, enabling a faster change of direction and enhanced acceleration and braking performances. The 848EVO is equipped with Y-shaped, 5-spoke wheels by Enkei which are finished in black while the 1198 rides on 10-spoke wheels finished in a subtle graphite grey, also by Enkei. The 1198 SP goes to the next specification level by rolling out on beautiful black 7-spoke lightweight, forged-aluminium, machine-finished wheels by Marchesini.

The 848EVO 1198 and 1198 SP models are all fitted with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tyres, at 120/70 ZR17 for the front, 180/55 ZR17 for the rear of the 848EVO and 190/55 ZR17 for the rear of both 1198 models. These high-performance tyres have shoulder areas that maximize the contact patch and carcasses specially designed for stiffness under heavy braking and precision during high speed cornering. This precision in tyre construction enabled Ducati technicians to create extremely fine programs for the Ducati Traction Controls systems used on the 1198 and 1198 SP.

Magnesium subframe

Producing a front subframe in magnesium underlines the attention to weight-saving detail in the Ducati Superbike range. Its construction provides secure support for the headlamp, instruments and fairing, and the weight-saving around this high, forward position contributes considerably to overall ‘feel’ and control of the machine.

Aerodynamic bodywork

Carefully designed for aerodynamic efficiency and to hug the sleek lines of the chassis, the Superbike bodywork enables the rider to blend effortlessly into the correct riding position. Its race-developed fairing design ensures perfect integration with the cooling system by providing efficient flow through the advanced, large surface area coolant radiator, which is assisted by lightweight, high flow electric fan assemblies and oil coolers. Aerodynamically shaped air ducts positioned just below the headlamps are precisely calculated to provide ample air delivery to the pressurised airbox.

The lightweight bodywork contributes considerably to overall performance by reducing weight, protecting the Testastretta Evoluzione engine’s power output, and assisting the rider to effortlessly ‘tuck in’ from the wind stream and reduce drag to achieve maximum straight-line track speeds.

Instrumentation

This pure racing digital instrumentation originating from Ducati’s MotoGP project has no switches or buttons to compromise its clean, minimalist lines. Instead, information additional to the default read-outs is managed from the left-hand handlebar-mounted switch gear, allowing the rider to scroll through and select from various menus. The display, which has a bright white LED back lighting presents rpm and speed, with the former displayed across the screen in a progressive bar graph. Optionally, the rpm and speed can be displayed in numeric values. Additionally, it displays lap times, DTC level selected (if activated on 1198 and 1198 SP) time, air temperature, coolant temperature, battery voltage, two trips and a trip that automatically starts as the fuel system goes onto reserve. Warning lights illuminate to signify neutral, turn signals, highbeam, rev-limit, low oil pressure, fuel reserve, DTC intervention (if activated on 1198 and 1198 SP) and scheduled maintenance. The instrument display is also used as the control panels for the DDA (supplied as standard equipment with the 1198 and 1198 SP), DTC and DQS systems as well as listing lap times recorded by using the high-beam flash button as a stopwatch.

Superbike lights and indicators

The horizontal twin headlamps, a signature Ducati style from the iconic 916, are modernised with the latest lighting technology. Two polyellipsoidal units light the way with a powerful beam while maintaining an aggressive look to the front of the machine in pure Ducati Superbike tradition.

The rear light employs a specially designed strip of LEDs enhanced by a high diffusion lens shaped into the sleek lines of the tailpiece. The same LEDs are intensified for brake lights.

The directional indicators also use the latest in LED technology for illumination. The frontal indicators are beautifully integrated into the rear view mirrors, which come with an optional spacer kit enabling an extension of 30mm over the standard mirror stem length.

Ducati Quick Shift

The Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) system is the first time that a race-style electronic quick-shift has been supplied as original equipment on a production Ducati. Normally used specifically for racing, the system allows the rider to keep the throttle open when changing-up through the gearbox, helping to save vital seconds in the pursuit of faster lap-times. The system not only saves time when changing gear, but also enables the possibility of uninterrupted air flow through the throttle bodies throughout the upward gearchanging process.

The system consists of a micro-switch built into the linkage of the gear change lever, which when actuated in the direction of selecting a higher gear, sends a signal to the main ECU. The ECU instantly understands which gear the motorcycle is in by calculating the rpm and vehicle speed and then reads the amount of throttle opening before applying a pre-programmed cut in fuel injection and ignition measured in milliseconds. This spilt-second electronic interruption in drive is programmed precisely to allow the next gear to be selected without having to actuate the clutch or close the throttle.

The DQS system can be deactivated by entering the control panel in the motorcycle’s instrumentation and is reactivated by default the next time the ignition is turned on. As the system only functions for a matter of milliseconds, the 1198 and 1198 SP can still be ridden using a normal gear-changing style.

Ducati Traction Control

Ducati were the first manufacturer to introduce a true competition-level traction control system on a production motorcycle and for 2011 the highly successful system is now integrated into both the 1198 and 1198 SP electronics as standard equipment. The Ducati Traction Control (DTC) system further underlines Ducati’s technology flow from racing to production and demonstrates how solutions developed for the track can be applied to enhance performance safety on the road.

DTC uses the same software logic developed and used by Ducati Corse for their World Championshipwinning MotoGP and World Superbike motorcycles and offers a choice of eight settings developed by their professional test riders and racers.

Accessible from the left-hand switchgear and displayed on the digital instrumentation, the system offers a choice of eight profiles, each one programmed with a wheel-spin tolerance matched to progressive riding levels of skill graded from one to eight. While level eight administers a confidence-building, high level of interaction from the system by activating upon the slightest amount of wheel-spin, level one offers a much higher tolerance and, therefore, much less intervention for highly competent riders.

When the level is selected and DTC activated, the level is displayed on the instrumentation.

When the profile that best suits the combination of road or track conditions and riding style has been selected and the DTC system activated, front and rear wheel sensors compare speed differential to sense when rear traction is being broken (wheel-spin). DTC then decides the best combination of two different types of instant electronic adjustment, calculated with data supplied from multiple sources.

The first ‘soft’ stage of system interaction is executed by high speed software that makes instant electronic adjustment to the ignition timing, administering varying amounts of ignition retardation to reduce the engine’s torque. During this initial stage of DTC interaction, up to three red lights – normally used to signify the over-rev limiter – illuminate to indicate the amount of DTC being applied.

If the DTC software detects that the first ‘soft’ stage of system interaction is inadequate to control the wheel-spin, it continues to administer ignition retardation and, in addition, instructs the engine ECU to initiate a pattern of constantly increasing injection cuts until, if necessary, full injection cut. During this second stage of interaction, all four warning lights fully illuminate to signify that DTC has also initiated injection cuts. As soon as the system recognises the gradual return of equal wheel speeds, it incrementally re-establishes normal power delivery. This seamless interaction is key to the super-smooth operation of the system.

The real innovative thinking behind the DTC system is how the various range of sensitivity levels decide precisely how to react to excessive wheel-spin by understanding the bike’s exact ‘dynamic situation’. From slow mid-corner acceleration with considerable vehicle inclination to high speed corner exits while almost upright, this ‘system intelligence’ is achieved by processing a mass of data in a matter of milliseconds. This technology exists thanks to the thousands of laps and hours spent testing, programming and earning Ducati Corse race victories on the track. It represents just part of Ducati’s latest road-bike technology and provides considerable increase in performance safety during mid-corner acceleration.

Data acquisition

The Ducati Data Analyser (DDA) – complete with PC software, a USB-ready data retrieval card and instructions – evaluates the performances of the bike and its rider, and makes comparisons between various channels of information. The DDA is available for the 848EVO from Ducati Performance, and is supplied as standard equipment with the 1198 and 1198 SP.

Normally only available on race bikes, DDA records numerous channels of data including throttle opening, vehicle speed, engine rpm, engine temperature, distance travelled, laps and lap times. The system also automatically calculates engine rpm and vehicle speed data so as to display gear selection as an extra channel of information. An additional channel of information is now dedicated to recording the DTC index which can then be viewed as a graphic trace and indicates the amount of DTC interaction during wheelspin.

At the end of a ride or track session, an upgraded 4mb of data can be downloaded to a PC ready to compare, analyse and get an inside view of the performance of the rider and motorcycle. Data can be analysed in graphic form with options to zoom into detail of specific sections. Dragging a trace along a timeline to reveal individual values of the above listed channels enables the user to analyse performance in the same way that data technicians can in factory teams. The software allows data to be compared with that from a completely separate session and for pages of data to be printed off easily.

2011 Ducati 1198R Corse Special Edition Technical Details

ENGINE

High-effieciency cooling

Its race-developed fairing design ensures perfect integration with the cooling system by providing efficient flow through the advanced, large surface area coolant radiator, which is assisted by lightweight, high flow electric fan assemblies and oil coolers.

Twin-injectors

The ‘R’ remains the only road-going Ducati to use twin injectors for each cylinder. The first centrally mounted injector feeds through a 4-hole nozzle while the second offset injector feeds through a 12-hole nozzle ensuring progressive and fluid power delivery throughout the rev-range. With this configuration the system has the capacity to provide much heavier fueling when used in competition.

Titanium components

To underline the 1198 R’s race intentions, titanium is used in the valves, connecting rods, and exhaust system to save weight and improve performance.

Slipper clutch

The dry, multiplate ‘slipper’ clutch reduces the destabilising effect of aggressive downshifting and helps provide the fine control required when used under extreme track conditions.

Sand-cast crankcases

The specification of this engine underlines its no-compromise race technology. To help contain the massive ‘R’ power output, the crankcases have been sand-cast produced, a process that improves the molecular quality of the casting, increasing strength while ensuring that intricate shapes are achieved with absolute accuracy.

Power & torque curves

The 1198 R engine represents the finest twin-cylinder technology in the world. It produces 180hp (132.4kW) @ 9,750rpm and 99.1lb-ft (13.7kgm) of brute torque @ 7,750rpm in standard mode and an astonishing 186hp when using the supplied race kit (intended strictly for track use only).

Crankshaft

Confirming the 1198 R’s race specification by minimising weight and increasing performance, the crankshaft connecting rods are made in titanium, achieving a 34% saving over the stock 1198 rods while reducing their reciprocating forces and improving crankshaft acceleration.

Titanium muffler

Incredibly lightweight, the exhaust system has been engineered with a power-increasing symmetrical 2-1-2 layout that uses 52mm-57mm diameter tubing with a wall thickness of 0.8mm (.030in). It is equipped with a catalytic converter and two lambda probes for optimum engine mapping and Euro3 conformity. The system terminates with Ducati’s trademark twin under-seat mufflers beautifully formed in super lightweight titanium and stainless steel, delivering that unmistakable signature sound of the big bore Desmo 90° L-Twin.

Elliptical throttle bodies

To keep the highly efficient Testastretta cylinder heads breathing to their full potential, the injection system uses MotoGP-derived elliptical throttle bodies with an equivalent diameter of 63.9mm.

Race-derived detail

The 1198 engines all share the same attention to race-derived details.

Race-designed 1198 pistons have a distinctive double-ribbed undercrown to achieve high strength and reduced friction by using minimal piston wall surface area. Using technology developed for the Desmosedici MotoGP project, the design enables reliable operation of the 106mm diameter pistons when performing at high rpm.

Racing-type rocker arms are ‘super-finished’ for reduced friction and fatigue at high rpm.

The gearbox’s carefully calculated specification allows the use of a high ratio 6th gear, fully enabling the speed increase achieved from additional performance modifications (suggested for track use only). Also with performance in mind and because of its high resistance to fatigue, the gears are machined from the same high-strength steel used in Ducati Corse race applications and are subjected to a shot-peening treatment that further ensures their strength.

Coperchio testa in magnesio

The weight-saving cam covers in magnesium-alloy are evident by their gold colour.

Desmodromics

The incredible valve performances of our engines are only possible because of Ducati’s unique Desmodromic system, where valve closure is activated mechanically. At high rpm it would be almost impossible for the valve to follow the steep closure profile of the cam lobe if it were relying upon a normal valve spring. With the Desmo system, the valve is closed mechanically with the same accuracy as it is opened, enabling steep cam profiles and radical cam timings. This system is used on every single Ducati power unit including our world-beating Superbike and Desmosedici MotoGP engines.

CHASSIS

Magnesium front sub-frame

Producing a front subframe in magnesium underlines the attention to weight-saving detail in the Ducati Superbike range. Its construction provides secure support for the headlamp, instruments and fairing, and the weight-saving around this high, forward position contributes considerably to overall ‘feel’ and control of the machine.

Trellis frame

Developed in cooperation with Ducati Corse, the lightweight Trellis frame features 34mm main section tubes with a material thickness of 1.5mm. The result is an incredibly rigid construction that remains one of Ducati’s lightest frame solutions ever.

Through decades of racing and development, Ducati has proven that innovative chassis engineering and evolutionary frame advancements win races. The tubular Trellis frame, used on every Ducati motorcycle, is a signature design element.

This unique Ducati frame is light, rigid and beautiful thanks to its ingenious Trellis design and use of high quality ALS 450 tubing. Each tube is mitred and micro-fusion welded in a complex triangulated pattern and our incredibly strong L-Twin engine cases are functional ‘stressed members’ of the chassis.

Brembo Monobloc brakes

Machined from a single piece of alloy, Brembo’s powerful Monobloc callipers achieve a higher rigidity and resistance to distortion during extreme braking. The resulting increase in hydraulic efficiency not only delivers incredible braking power, but also provides an enhanced and precise ‘feel’ at the brake lever. The twin Monobloc callipers each have four 34mm pistons that grip huge 330mm discs to help achieve spectacular brake performance. The weight of the discs has been kept to a minimum by employing racing-style narrow braking surfaces.

Ohlins forks

The high performance, fully adjustable 43mm Ã–hlins forks, which sport low friction titanium nitride-treated fork sliders, respond effortlessly to every imperfection in the tarmac. Beyond their advanced engineering solutions, one of the most important characteristics of Ã–hlins forks is their ability to communicate the condition and quality of the tyre-to-road contact patch, a feature that puts you in superior control.

Marchesini 7-spoke wheels

The lightweight front wheels used on all Ducati Superbike models substantially reduces the moment of inertia, enabling a faster change of direction and enhanced acceleration and braking performances.

The ‘SP’ and ‘R’ rides on beautiful black 7-spoke lightweight, forged-aluminium, machine-finished wheels by Marchesini, and are fitted with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC at 120/70 ZR17 for the front and 190/55 ZR17 for the rear. These tyres have shoulder areas that maximize the contact patch and carcasses specially designed for stiffness under heavy braking and precision during high speed cornering. This precision in tyre construction enabled Ducati technicians to create extremely fine programs for the Ducati Traction Controls systems used on the bike.

The dual construction technique used for the single-sided swingarm allows the main operational components to use individual aluminium castings so as to ensure strength around the pivot points, wheel hub and suspension links, while lightweight, fabricated aluminium sections are used to complete the construction into a single, beautifully engineered component. The swingarm is finished in natural aluminium to match the new factory team-style aluminium fuel tank.

Monoposto

Underlining its competition intention, the 1198 R is designed as a true ‘monoposto’ with no provisions to carry a passenger. This has enabled a 50% weight reduction of the rear subframe by producing it in aluminium alloy.

Superbike aerodynamics

Carefully designed for aerodynamic efficiency and to hug the sleek lines of the chassis, the Superbike bodywork enables the rider to blend effortlessly into the correct riding position.

Its race-developed fairing design ensures perfect integration with the cooling system by providing efficient flow through the advanced, large surface area coolant radiator, which is assisted by lightweight, high flow electric fan assemblies and oil coolers. Aerodynamically shaped air ducts positioned just below the headlamps are precisely calculated to provide ample air delivery to the pressurised airbox.

The lightweight bodywork contributes considerably to overall performance by reducing weight, protecting the Testastretta Evoluzione engine’s power output, and assisting the rider to effortlessly ‘tuck in’ from the wind stream and reduce drag to achieve maximum straight-line track speeds.

Ohlins TTX rear suspension

The higher specification Ã–hlins for the rear of the 1198 R Corse uses TTXR twin tube technology and offers totally separate damping adjustment in compression and rebound. It uses experience gained in MotoGP to minimise friction and reduce the risk of cavitation under extreme conditions.

An adjustable rear ride-height, independent of spring pre-load and other suspension settings, enables the perfect set-up for personal riding style or track conditions.

Aluminium fuel tank

The new beautifully formed factory team-style aluminium fuel tank comes in a bold red, white and black colour scheme. It weighs 1kg (2.2lb) less than the original tank and boosts the bike’s fuel capacity by 2.5 litres (0.66 US gal) to 18 litres (4.75 US gal). The tank is formed in 2mm thick aluminium, brush finished and clear-coated to maintain a factory race tank feel and proudly displays the new Ducati Corse logo on top.

EQUIPMENT

DDA

The Ducati Data Analyser (DDA), which includes PC software, a USB-ready data retrieval card and instructions, enables you to review and analyse your performance and that of the bike’s, and to make comparisons between various channels of information. The system records numerous channels of data including throttle opening (A), vehicle speed (B), engine rpm (C), engine temperature (D), distance travelled (E), laps and lap times. It also automatically calculates engine rpm and vehicle speed data, enabling it to display gear selection (F) as an additional channel of information. An additional channel of information is now dedicated to recording the DTC index (G) which can then be viewed as a graphic trace and indicates the amount of DTC interaction during wheel-spin. (Subject to model) At the end of a ride or track session, up to 4mb of data can be downloaded ready to compare, analyse and get an inside view of the performance of both you and the bike.

GP-derived instruments

This pure racing digital instrumentation originating from Ducati’s MotoGP project has no switches or buttons to compromise its clean, minimalist lines. Instead, information additional to the default read-outs is managed from the left-hand handlebar-mounted switch gear, allowing the rider to scroll through and select from various menus. The display, which has a bright white LED back lighting, presents rpm and speed, with the former displayed across the screen in a progressive bar graph. Optionally, the rpm and speed can be displayed in numeric values. Additionally, it displays lap times, DTC level selected (if activated on 1198) time, air temperature, coolant temperature, battery voltage, two trips and a trip that automatically starts as the fuel system goes onto reserve. Warning lights illuminate to signify neutral, turn signals, high-beam, rev-limit, low oil pressure, fuel reserve, DTC intervention (if activated on 1198 S, 1198 S Corse and 1198 R Corse) and scheduled maintenance. The instrument display is also used as the control panels for the DDA (DDA kit supplied as standard on 1198 S, 1198 S Corse and 1198 R Corse) and DTC systems as well as listing lap times recorded by using the high-beam flash button as a stopwatch.

Lighting

The horizontal twin headlamps, a signature Ducati style from the iconic 916, are modernised with the latest lighting technology. Two polyellipsoidal units light the way with a powerful beam while maintaining an aggressive look to the front of the machine in pure Ducati Superbike tradition.

The rear light employs a specially designed strip of LEDs enhanced by a high diffusion lens shaped into the sleek lines of the tailpiece. The same LEDs are intensified for brake lights.

The directional indicators also use the latest in LED technology for illumination. The frontal indicators are beautifully integrated into the rear view mirrors.

Mirror extension kit

All Superbike mirrors come with an optional spacer kit enabling an extension of 30mm over the standard mirror stem length.

DTC

Ducati were the first manufacturer to introduce a true competition-level traction control system on a production motorcycle. The Ducati Traction Control (DTC) system further underlines Ducati’s technology flow from racing to production and demonstrates how solutions developed for the track can be applied to enhance performance safety on the road.

DTC uses the same software logic developed and used by Ducati Corse for their World Championship-winning MotoGP and World Superbike motorcycles and offers a choice of eight settings developed by their professional test riders and racers.

Accessible from the left-hand switchgear and displayed on the digital instrumentation, the system offers a choice of eight profiles, each one programmed with a wheel-spin tolerance matched to progressive riding levels of skill graded from one to eight. While level eight administers a confidence-building, high level of interaction from the system by activating upon the slightest amount of wheel-spin, level one offers a much higher tolerance and, therefore, much less intervention for highly competent riders.

Race kit

This top-of-the-range model is supplied with a race kit that includes a full racing exhaust system with 102dB carbon fibre mufflers by Termignoni and dedicated ECU which raises power output to approximately 186hp (intended strictly for track use only). Also in the kit is a unique Ducati Corse branded bike cover designed by Aldo Drudi and rear paddock stand as well as an official cased plaque of authentication that confirms the collectable value of this exclusive motorcycle.

Carbon fibre

The front fender and side panels are left in a contrasting natural carbon fibre finish while the belly-pan is painted, but reveals its carbon fibre material inside the aerodynamic recess for the side-stand.

Controls

Ducati Superbikes are equipped with adjustable levers that operate Brembo radial-type master cylinders with remote reservoirs. Add easy-to-use switchgear with stopwatch function and DTC and DDA management and it becomes clear that functionality plays a major role alongside performance.

Stopwatch

The digital display is programmed with a stopwatch function that, when enabled, can be triggered by using the high-beam flash button and each recorded time stored in a memory. After your journey or track session, the times or lap times can be recalled from the memory and scrolled through by using the instrumentation buttons on the left-hand switchgear.

CONCEPT

Superbike heritage

Ducati Superbikes, designed, engineered and built in Bologna, Italy, have always represented the pinnacle of Ducati motorcycle technology and racing success. For Ducati, racing and winning are a way of life and a way of thinking for our designers, engineers and everyone at the factory. Our unique engineering solutions are proven on the race track, where the only way to win is to have technical superiority and dependable performance.

Ducati have dominated World Superbike racing, winning more Riders’ and more Manufacturers’ World Championship titles and more individual races than any other manufacturer. Add these unequalled performances to the historic achievement of winning the MotoGP World Championship, and the results speak for themselves.

Engineered by the stopwatch

Ducati Superbikes are the most advanced, most powerful twin-cylinder motorcycles ever built. They are the product of a team of designers and engineers who have combined their Ducati MotoGP and World Superbike technologies to create the finest sportbikes in the world. From race-level engine specifications to World Championship-winning traction control, the results are pure excellence. The Ducati Traction Control (DTC) system further underlines our technology flow from racing to production and demonstrates how solutions developed for the track can be applied to enhance safer performance on the road.

Ducati Corse Special Edition

The winning of both the 2009 World Superbike and Superstock Manufacturers’ titles is a fitting stage on which to present two exclusive and exciting special editions built to mark the historic introduction of a new Ducati Corse logo. The 1198 S Corse Special Edition and 1198 R Corse Special Edition are both equipped with factory team-style aluminium fuel tanks, Ducati Traction Control and a special celebratory Ducati Corse livery.

R philosophy

The ‘R’ is a race bike, pure and simple. Its competition specification and superior components together with advanced electronics and race-proven chassis technology deliver a level of performance that empowers with confidence and capability. On the road, it distinguishes you as a connoisseur of high-performance motorcycles. On the track it instantly promotes you to a higher level of skill.

The road-going ‘R’ version is as close as it gets to Ducati’s factory race bike. The 1198 R is not a replica – it’s the real deal. An incredible 180hp L-Twin Testastretta Evoluzione engine in a race-winning Trellis chassis set-up weighs in at 1kg (2.2lb) less than last year to become an unbelievably light 164kg (361.5lb) and is equipped with Ducati Corse’s World Championship-winning traction control system.

Designed by the race track

Ducati Superbikes are race bikes, pure and simple. Their striking aerodynamic shapes create a natural riding position, confirmed by our development and factory team riders as the optimum for speed and agility. Performance is first and foremost in every detail.

Trademark Ducati features like the high tail section and compact front end combine with twin under-seat silencers and single-sided swingarm to express the sheer engineering beauty of aerodynamics and agility. Add the Testastretta Evoluzione engines as the hearts of the machines and the result is all-out performance Ducati Superbikes that look fast even when parked.

With an impressive exhibition presence of approximately 400m2, stand D-040 in hall 8 of Cologne’s INTERMOT 2010 show now plays host to exciting new arrivals in the Superbike family in addition to new colours and updates for both the Streetfighter and Monster range. With new models, accessories and apparel, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer from Bologna is showing a wide range of new 2011 products at this major international show.

“We decided to consolidate our presence here in Cologne because we believe in the importance of this exhibition event, which opens the European motor show season,” stated Gabriele Del Torchio, President of Ducati Motor Holding, during the opening press conference. “Our presence at the show is proof of our commitment to customers in Germany and northern Europe, and underlines our aim to expand in Germany, which is the second most important market in Europe for Ducati. For this reason we decided to preview here some of the new products scheduled for 2011, such as the new additions to the Superbike family with the 848EVO and 1198 SP, and new liveries for the Monster and Streetfighter models.”

Gabriele Del Torchio also commented on the results of the first eight months of 2010: “Despite a shrinking global motorcycle market, we have used Ducati’s product policy and the quality of its distribution network to improve both our market share, now at 8.5%, and also to increase our sales by 5% compared to this period 2009.”

A huge attendance is expected at the German show and visitors to the Ducati stand are sure to admire the innovative and ground-breaking Multistrada 1200, which made an immediate impact on the market upon debut in March 2010. The current model will not undergo any changes for 2011, confirming its proven design and high standard of quality. INTERMOT is also the first European event to celebrate the Multistrada’s victory at the “Pike’s Peak International Hillclimb”, the famous annual race held high in the Colorado mountains, where riders have to quickly adapt to changing road surfaces. The Multistrada on which American, Greg Tracy, took victory has been specially flown in to Cologne from the US so that fans can share in this major celebration and see further proof of the Multistrada 1200’s incredible versatility.

Important additions to the Ducati Superbike family are on show in an exclusive preview of the 2011 range, including the new 848EVO which boasts 140hp and is equipped with Brembo Monobloc callipers and steering damper. The performance-enhanced model celebrates the INTERMOT show by revealing a stunning new “arctic white” livery with sporty red wheels and red frame.

The standard 1198 is also ready to satisfy an ever more demanding market, with the addition of Ducati Traction Control (DTC), the Ducati Data Analyser (DDA) and the brand new Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) fitted as standard equipment on all versions. For 2011, the improved 1198 is joined by the exciting new 1198 SP, which enhances the previous ‘S’ version by rolling out equipped with DTC, DQS, DDA, Ohlins TTX rear suspension, slipper clutch and aluminium fuel tank in addition to the usual Ohlins front suspension, forged Marchesini wheels and lightweight carbon fibre components.

The 2011 848 EVO looks impressive in its new colour schemes of red with red frame or diamond black with racing black frame, both with black wheels. A black radiator cover on all versions completes the Streetfighter’s aesthetic updates.

Enhanced comfort and safety, in addition to new colour schemes, headline the main updates to Ducati’s naked icon, the Monster. The entry level 696 gets new 43mm Marzocchi forks and enhanced ergonomics, including 20mm higher handlebars and a new rear sub-frame designed to accept the user-friendly passenger grab-rail kit available as a Ducati Performance accessory. The Monster 696 presents the two new colour schemes of “dark stealth” and “stone white”, perfectly complementing the new matte chrome handlebar finish. The Monster 796, which was launched in April 2010 as an early entry model year 2011, also adopts Marzocchi front suspension and continues its incredible success. Along with the Monster 1100, the 696 and 796 complete the 2011 range, confirming the family’s status as a style and design icon, backed-up by 17 years of Ducati Monster heritage.